TVO Nuclear Services (TVONS), a Finnish nuclear energy company, and Fermi Energia have signed a framework agreement under which TVONS will act as a consultant in the ongoing small reactor power plant project in Estonia.
Fermi Energia's aim is to build two 300MW small reactor nuclear power plants in Estonia to ensure climate-independent and emission-free electricity generation for decades to come.
"We are pleased to support Fermi Energy in the development of their small reactor project. TVONS' role is to bring experience and practical solutions to the project that will contribute to its safe and efficient implementation," said Ari Leppänen, CEO of TVO Nuclear Services.
According to Fermi Energia, the inclusion of Finland's nuclear expertise is an important component in the project's progress. The TVO Group's experience in implementing large nuclear projects, operating plants and a strong safety culture provide a solid basis for the design and implementation of a small reactor in Estonia.
The companies are united by a common objective to strengthen the role of nuclear energy as part of clean energy production in the Baltic region and to improve long-term security of supply.
"Based on the cooperation agreement, we have launched the next phase of the work and will announce the progress of the project at the appropriate stages," said Henri Ormus, Member of the Board of Fermi Energia.
TVONS is a subsidiary of Teollisuuden Voima Oyj (TVO) - the operator of the Olkiluoto nuclear power plant - 100%. The company brings to the Estonian project a long and diversified Olkiluoto experience. TVO has been generating electricity from nuclear power since 1978 and has extensive experience in planning and managing new nuclear facilities - both from the perspective of the contracting authority and the future plant operator.
In the Estonian project, TVONS' expertise covers the main project phases, from project initiation and permit preparation to the assessment of supply and construction models and support for plant commissioning and operational readiness.
In the advisory role, TVONS will draw on TVO's broad experience from its projects, including the recently completed Olkiluoto 3 reactor, which will start regular electricity generation in 2023. In addition, TVONS draws on international projects carried out in recent years, which have strengthened the company's understanding of global best practices and increased its relevant expertise.
The aim of the cooperation is to ensure that the Fermi Energy project progresses in line with international requirements, good industrial practice and safety standards.